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Ras Al Khaimah · UAE Free Zone

Innovation City (formerly RAK DAO)

Empowering Digital Innovation and Blockchain Excellence

Established2021
Companies500+
AreaNot publicly disclosed
LocationRas Al Khaimah
Official website

Zone at a glance

Cost efficiency
Setup speed
Flexibility

Relative rating across UAE free zones, scored out of five.

Overview

About Innovation City

Innovation City, formerly known as RAK DAO, is a specialized free zone in Ras Al Khaimah focused on digital innovation, blockchain technology, and emerging technologies. The zone provides a regulatory-friendly environment for fintech, cryptocurrency, and digital asset companies to establish and operate their businesses in the UAE.

Governing Authority:Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ)

Location & Connectivity

Nearest Airport

Ras Al Khaimah International Airport

15 km away

Address

Al Hamra Industrial Zone, Ras Al Khaimah, UAE

Total Area

Not publicly disclosed

Nearby Landmarks

Al Hamra MallWaldorf Astoria Ras Al KhaimahAl Marjan IslandRAK Free Trade ZoneAmerican University of Ras Al Khaimah

Interested in setting up in Innovation City?

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Sectors

Key Industries

Blockchain Technology
Cryptocurrency
Fintech
Digital Assets
DeFi Platforms
NFT Marketplaces

Ideal For

Blockchain StartupsCrypto ExchangesDigital Asset ManagersFintech CompaniesTech EntrepreneursDeFi Projects

Licensing

License Types & Costs

Blockchain Technology License

For companies developing blockchain solutions, smart contracts, and distributed ledger technologies

Starting from
18,000AED

Activities Allowed

Blockchain development, smart contract creation, DLT solutions

Digital Asset License

For cryptocurrency exchanges, digital wallet providers, and crypto trading platforms

Starting from
25,000AED

Activities Allowed

Crypto trading, digital wallet services, token issuance

Fintech License

For financial technology companies and digital payment solutions

Starting from
20,000AED

Activities Allowed

Payment processing, financial software, digital banking solutions

Processing Time

5-7 business days

Annual Renewal

Same as initial license fee

Validity

1 year, renewable

Need help choosing the right license type?

Our experts can guide you through the licensing options and help you select the best fit.

Residency

Visa Information

Available for shareholders, directors, and employees of licensed companies

2 visas

Desk Space

4 visas

Private Office

8 visas

Dedicated Office

Investor VisaEmployee VisaDependent VisaGolden Visa (eligible investors)
Processing:7-10 business days
Golden Visa Eligible

Investment

Estimated Costs

License Fee
From 18,000 AED
Visa (per person)
~4,500 AED
Office Space
From 8,000 AED/year
Estimated First Year Total
From 30,500 AED
Approximate, starting estimate

Costs vary based on license type and office requirements. Additional fees may apply for specific regulatory approvals.

Want a detailed cost breakdown for your business?

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Assessment

Pros & Cons

Advantages

  • Specialized focus on blockchain and digital innovation
  • Crypto-friendly regulatory environment
  • Fast company setup process
  • No minimum capital requirements
  • Golden Visa eligibility
  • Modern technology infrastructure
  • Competitive pricing for tech companies
  • Strategic location in Ras Al Khaimah

Considerations

  • Limited to technology and digital sectors
  • Smaller ecosystem compared to Dubai free zones
  • Less international recognition than established zones

Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Advantages

Why Choose Innovation City?

100% foreign ownership with no local sponsor required
Zero corporate tax on qualifying income
Full repatriation of capital and profits
No currency or exchange restrictions
World-class infrastructure and connectivity
Streamlined business registration process

Best For

  • Blockchain Companies
  • Crypto Startups
  • Fintech Businesses
  • Digital Innovation
  • Tech Entrepreneurs

Not Ideal For

  • Traditional Manufacturing
  • Heavy Industries
  • Non-tech Businesses
  • Large Corporations
  • Retail Operations

Begin Your Journey

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